Home   Sittingbourne   News   Article

Fury at plans for gypsy sites in Swale

Owners of homes on new housing developments could end up with gypsies for neighbours under controversial plans revealed by Swale council.

Opposition members have slammed the idea, accusing ruling Tories of wasting time on a policy that will fail. They say house builders will never agree to accommodate gypsy sites within their developments.

The proposal is being put forward in the local plan which is due to go out for public consultation next month to meet targets set by central government.

Cllr Roger Truelove (Lab), Ward member for Chalkwell, said: “Our opposition to this idea is not discriminatory. We know this idea is not practical or viable.

“Developers will never comply with it. We believe the Tories know this but are prepared to put this forward to create a false impression that something is being done.

“It will not help the local communities that have so far been affected.”

Swale council hopes that by providing designated sites, it would stop unauthorised camps setting up across the borough.

Leader Andrew Bowles said: “Including the pitches within mainstream housing development is an attempt to be fully inclusive.

“The Labour party alternative would result in gypsy and traveller developments being restricted to the rural parishes, and that would be discriminatory.”

It is estimated that the number of sites needed is 90 for the period up until 2031.

However, since a survey was carried out by Salford University in February, three rural sites have already gained planning permission, bringing the total down to 87.

The absence of proper provision in Swale has led to unauthorised sites springing up, with many of them being allowed to stay on appeal.

The idea was opposed by Labour group members when the matter was discussed by the advisory Local Development Framework Panel on June 27.

During the meeting, it was suggested the option be removed on the grounds that it was not “realistic or viable”, but that was rejected by council deputy leader Gerry Lewin when the cabinet met on July 10.

Cllr Bowles said public responses to a consultation starting on August 19 would be taken into consideration.

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More